Rise NYFW, a platform created for independent fashion designers to showcase their collections in front of a global audience, seeks to bridge multicultural differences through fashion.
While culture is a vast term encompassing elements such as language, eating habits, and social norms, it also plays a pivotal role in the type of clothing and accessories people choose to wear. As a platform of self-expression, Rise NYFW focuses on fashion that unifies people while showcasing an artistic sensibility.
In September 2022, Rise NYFW presented multiple shows featuring collections from indigenous fashion designers Angela Howe-Parrish, Amber Buckanaga, Stephanie Gamble, Tishynah Buffalo, and Stephanie Crowchild. Flipino-owned brand Kandama showcased their collection dedicated to the empowerment of indigenous Ifugao women, while Nigerian-born designer Rashidat Enifeni wowed attendees with her luxury couture collection.
American designers for the event included Afro.Trap.Lux, The Debonaire Club, AMV, Urban Sophie, Arianne Zager, Jessica Veley, Maudhaus Artistry, House of Ginnie, Jarvius Jow, Stuttering Diva, SheDrippz, Sincerely by Staceyanne, SR Uniquewear, and Zhynyrah.
Rise NYFW’s September 2022 showcase also featured a diverse group of models, including Sport’s Illustrated first indigenous swimsuit model, Ashley Callingbull, and New Zealand’s activists/sisters Hinauri and Sidney Nehua-Jackson of the Māori.